Grassroots 2018 was an exclusive event for leaders of architecture practices and AIA chapters. The agenda emphasized component leadership and workshops designed to help component officers become more effective chapter and civic leaders.

The conference opened doors and provided opportunities to share knowledge, experiences, and challenges. The premise of this year’s Grassroots theme “Leading through Influence,” was to demonstrate the impact of influence in improving chapter and firm effectiveness, communities, and the lives of others. Empowering attendees to best serve their chapters, communities and the profession is an integral part of the experience.

Featherston was part of a panel that presented on "Advancing Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion: Chapter Approaches from Vision to Action." Her component of the panel delved into the concept of "Creating Small Moments of Change." This topic highlighted the different ways that people can make a difference through actionable opportunities. "Everyone has the ability to participate, we only need to tap into their own passions to harness it."